3 Reasons- Why Does Gold Turn Black? (Solution Included)

Have you ever thought why does Gold turn black? or why your pure gold ring has suddenly turned black? or if gold turns black is it fake? Well, some people do not know the actual reasons behind the gold discoloration of their Jewelry and they do prefer throwing it away.

Discoloration of gold into black is very common, but there are specific reasons behind it.

Gold is precious but at the same time, it is sensitive enough due to it requires massive maintenance and regular care.

So, if you’ve ever had this question in your mind: “why is my gold turning black?” then you’re in the right place.

Check out the top 3 reasons for Gold turning black.

Why Does Gold Turn Black? 3 Reasons

One of the most likely reasons why gold turns black is all due to metallic abrasion, or low-quality plating as well as corrosion. Any sort of hard metal can easily turn the actual color of the gold whereas the plating can also discolor.

Most of the plats are made out of rhodium rather than palladium, which makes them much more resistant to discoloration. Let’s discuss a few major reasons why does gold jewelry turn black:

Reason No 1: Metallic Abrasion

Any cosmetic or makeup you have been wearing can eventually cause discoloration in gold jewelry. Most cosmetics are having hard metals that can easily cut any softer gold.

You will know when you are wearing any cosmetic that is based on some metals which is harder than gold. To easily fix this whole issue, you have to switch the cosmetic or either applies makeup before wearing jewelry.

Reason No 2: Low-Quality Plating

Another major reason is over the low quality of the plating. The majority of the gold rigs are sold through the rhodium-plated surface. These plates will be around .25 to .5 microns thick, or sometimes thinner.

Rhodium is extremely reflective, hard, and porous. With time, particles will sift in between the rhodium plating. This will affect the specific gold alloy and will cause black discoloration.

Reason No 3: Corrosion

Lastly, we have the reason for corrosion. Copper, silver, and nickel are a few major metals that are mixed with gold. Once these metals get oxidized, probably they will start looking dark. Perspiration, warmth, or moisture are a few major reasons which will cause discoloration in all these alloys.

Its best solution is to pick the non-porous plate material including platinum for protecting the gold. Besides, general care and maintenance will also help to deal with black discoloration.

How To Clean Gold That Has Turned Black?

Does Gold Tarnish?

Any jewelry piece which is made out of pure gold does not tarnish at all because it would never corrode or oxidize. But any gold piece which is out of alloy i.e. silver or copper probably tarnishes and will turn black.

Any gold jewelry will also darken in case it has been frequently exposed to the use of soap, or lotion.

How to clean gold that has turned black? Check out these 5 easy steps.

PS: If you’re looking for some tips to clean your silver jewelry then here’s a recommended article: How to clean silver jewelry.

1. You have to mix any weak solution which is based on 6 parts ammonia as well as 1 part warm water in any small cup or bowl.
2. Now you have to dip your earrings in the mixture, and later on, scrub them with gentle hands by using a soft toothbrush or any cotton swab to make them suitable to be the best earrings to sleep in.
3. Next, you have to rinse your jewelry thoroughly with mild water to make sure that the ammonia has been completely removed.
4. Use a soft cloth and dry it carefully.
5. Allow it to get dry overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions-FAQs

1. How you can easily clean gold that has suddenly turned black?

How to clean gold jewelry that’s turning black? or How to clean tarnished Gold?

To clean a gold jewellery piece that has turned black, you have to, first of all, cover a medium bowl with a sheet of aluminum foil. Now add some salt it and baking soda. Start heating the water in the microwave for a maximum of 2 minutes. After it, you have to add some water to aluminum foil and cover the bowl with some salt and baking soda. Soak your jewelry in it for a maximum of 10 minutes. Rub any access tarnish or debris with a soft cloth and rinse it with warm water.

2. Why does the gold turns black?

Gold turns black when some base metals alloyed with the gold react with or even to oxygen it can eventually discolor or even tarnish your gold jewelry. This Oxidation is working as a chemical reaction in which the electrons are lost. Most of the gold items consist of a combination of alloy metals such as silver or copper Gold and these alloy metals turn the Gold jewellery black.

3. Why does your gold necklace turn your neck black?

One major reason for skin discoloration when you wear gold jewelry is metallic abrasion. This abrasion is due to the makeup on clothing or skin. Some cosmetics also include certain compounds that are harder as compared to the jewelry itself. They can easily wear or even rub off tiny particles

4. What are the signs of real gold?

If gold turns black is it fake? Does real gold turn black?

If the gold item sinks, then it means that it is real gold. But if it floats, then it is fake. Real gold will eventually sink to the bottom because it is quite denser as compared to water. Gold will never rust and if you have real gold you don’t need to worry about its quality being damaged.

Bottom Line

This was a quick guide about why does Gold jewellery turn black and how you can prevent it.

Sometimes the actual cause of getting your jewelry black is all due to careless maintenance which is very much needed for gold jewelry items.

We have tried our level best to provide you with accurate information and details to save you from the worry of going through the market.

We hope this article will be helpful to you. Don’t forget to share it with your friends.

Thank you for reading it.